Intertechnik Audyn capacitors. Capacitive components for crossover circuits.

A capacitor basically consists of two insulated plates (foils). A capacitor is able to absorb and release electrical charge. The electrical quantity is specified in capacitance C (unit of measurement: Farad). When operated with alternating current, as is the case with an audio signal, the plates are charged alternately. Like the coil, the capacitor exhibits a frequency-dependent behavior with alternating current. At low frequencies, the capacitor represents a large resistance, which becomes smaller and smaller as the frequency increases. This means that if a capacitor is connected in front of a loudspeaker, it will predominantly receive higher frequencies. Low frequencies are attenuated.

Capacitors are used for various purposes to filter, block or transmit electrical signals. Common applications of capacitors in audio technology are

Coupling capacitors: Capacitors are often used as coupling capacitors to block DC components in an audio signal. This allows the AC signal to be transmitted while filtering out DC voltages that may be unwanted.

Low-pass and high-pass filters in crossovers: Capacitors are used in conjunction with resistors and other components to create low-pass and high-pass filters. These filters are used to obtain a specific frequency response. To emphasize or attenuate certain frequencies, depending on the requirements of the audio system.

It is important to note that the selection and placement of capacitors in audio applications is critical to the desired functionality and sound quality. Different types of capacitors can have different sonic characteristics and must be carefully selected to meet the quality requirements of the project.